Review Summary: An especially eclectic blend of quality deathrock
Poison Ruïn already had a case for being a pretty unconventional punk group, serving up deathrock rounded out by dungeon synth and slight metal tinges. In addition to a more coherent production job, Hymns From The Hills pushes their sonic palette even further by introducing folk flourishes to the cocktail. While this does make for a more dynamic listening experience compared to the even more lo-fi sound of the group’s previous outings, I wouldn’t exactly call it accessible.
It’s impressive how the band exerts an eclectic approach without it feeling forced, no doubt reinforced by energetic playing and snappy songs no matter the mood. “Lily Of The Valley” jumps off the synthy “Intro” with a bouncy progression, mopey vocals, and keyboards that hit the heavy goth sweet spot ala Unto Others quite nicely. The title track keeps the momentum going while providing some contrasting textures as its pulsating drums, shimmering effects, and fast acoustic strumming make it play out like The Damned gone folk punk.
Subsequent songs exaggerate these broad dynamics with a more pronounced push and pull. A song like “Howls From The Citadel” could’ve flopped for how much it halts the album’s momentum yet comes out beautifully with echoing vocals and sweet nature sounds that turn sinister. Meanwhile, “Pilgrimage,” “Guts (Lay Your Self Aside),” and “Crescent Sun” toy with the lines of hardcore punk and metal that eventually culminate in the blasts of the closing “The Standoff.” “Puzzle Box” and “Sleeping Giant (Interlude)” are also neat outliers, the former echoing Joy Division with busy bass riffs and warped vocals while the latter slowing things down again with dungeon synth turned toward almost atmospheric doom.
In a year where I seem to be running into more quality deathrock than I would’ve expected, Hymns From The Hills is an especially interesting blend. I’m not sure how established fans of Poison Ruïn may take to the upgraded prediction and broader dynamics, but they feel in character for the band’s development. It’s especially helpful that the songwriting relies on energy more than gimmicks and the musicianship has the talent to back up their gumption. With these guys not having been on my radar before, it’ll be intriguing to see where they’ll go from here.
